The trial involved inviting 500 Microsoft UK staff members ranging from engineers and senior directors to sample a variety of vehicles.

The software company said the Nissan Leaf made the final selection list after praise from Microsoft UK staff for its comfort, drivability and good level of standard equipment.

Microsoft UK has since installed two 32 amp quick chargers at its Reading HQ allowing staff who have opted for the Leaf to charge it on site.

First to take delivery of a Nissan Leaf is Alex Kureen, Microsoft UK’s partner/channel marketing manager.

Kureen will keep the vehicle for four years and cover approximately 7,000 miles per year as the LEAF becomes his environmentally friendly commuter vehicle.

“As you can imagine at a software company, when we announced the vehicle trial list we were overwhelmed with staff interest in an advanced piece of technology like the Nissan Leaf,” said Katie Colledge-Price, Microsoft UK’s car benefits manager. “During the trial the Leaf received consistently positive feedback for how enjoyable and calming it is to drive as well as being a comfortable family vehicle. We have installed charging points at our Reading HQ to encourage staff to consider electric vehicles to help reduce our carbon footprint so we’re now looking forward to welcoming more Leafs to Microsoft UK.”

In Europe, the Leaf is manufactured at Nissan’s Sunderland Plant, located in Sunderland, UK.

“Microsoft UK is at the cutting edge of hi-tech developments so to hear its praise for the LEAF and its technology is particularly pleasing,” said Barry Beeston, Nissan corporate sales director. “The Leaf represents an excellent solution to cutting any company’s carbon footprint as well as reducing running costs for the end user. After a positive trial process, we now look forward to providing more Leafs as staff at Microsoft UK see the benefits of 100 percent electric vehicles.”